Regular cleaning of the washing machine is essential. Residues of detergents, dirt or mold accumulate in the washing machine, which makes it difficult to wash it effectively and can even lead to its failure. The washing machine can also start to smell unpleasant, so many people are looking for effective ways to freshen it up. The products we have on hand can be useful for this purpose. Learn how to get rid of mold and odors from your washing machine.

How to clean the washing machine?

An unpleasant smell coming from the drum of the washing machine is a sign that mold and bacteria have appeared in it. Where do they come from? By not cleaning it regularly, we contribute to their growth. With frequent use, detergent residues and dirt begin to accumulate inside the washing machine. In combination with humidity, heat and insufficient air circulation, they create ideal conditions for the growth of mold and microbes. Their very presence is responsible for the characteristic musty smell coming from the washing machine and settling on the fabrics.

To eliminate the odor problem, the washing machine needs to be cleaned, disinfected and descaled. It’s not as difficult as it seems – to perform all three steps, we need one inconspicuous and inexpensive product that everyone already has at home: ordinary baking soda. It is very effective and, unlike vinegar, which is sometimes accused of damaging the seals, it is safe for the delicate parts of the washing machine. If you are the lucky owner of a model with a self-cleaning mode, you don’t even need baking soda – just switch the washing machine to the right program. But what if your washing machine does not have a self-cleaning mode?

Cleaning the detergent drawer

We start by scrubbing the detergent compartments with a toothbrush. A lot of soap residue collects there, forming lumps that clog the nozzles that feed water into the drum. To make our work easier, we can sprinkle the inside of the feeder with lemon juice, a few drops of detergent or a generous dose of irreplaceable baking soda. Nothing prevents us from removing the entire drawer and soaking it in water with the aforementioned ingredients. After soaking for a long enough time, all impurities will dissolve.

Cleaning the washing machine drum

In the next step, we deal with the internal part of the appliance. Pour about a cup of baking soda into the powder container and add a dozen drops of our favorite essential oil. We set the washing machine to the highest possible temperature and run it on the longest program. We do not fill the washing machine with clothes – in order to thoroughly clean it, we do “no washing”. After the device has finished running, let it dry completely. We open the door leading to the drum and the detergent drawer.

Filter cleaning

Don’t forget to check the filters. Hair, fibers, the contents of bags that we forgot to empty, and other similar impurities collect on them. Their clogging can lead to the accumulation of water, clogging of the drain pump and, subsequently, damage to the washing machine. The filter is usually located in the front part of the washing machine, under the drum, on its lower edge. To remove it, you usually have to turn it and pull it towards you. Cover the bathroom floor with a towel before unscrewing the filter. If the filter is clean, simply rinse it under warm water with detergent. If it is covered with a layer of limescale, it is a good idea to soak it in a solution of water and baking soda.

Cleaning of seals

After cleaning the filters and the drum, it is possible to clean the seals. Cover their crevices with a thick layer of baking soda and then spray them all over with warm water. Wipe the rubber part with a dry clean cloth. In the case of visible mold stains, use a stronger bleach that will deal with the mold in a few moments. However, do not combine it with acidic substances such as vinegar or citric acid.

Home methods of refreshing the washing machine

There are several home remedies that will help restore the freshness of your washing machine. Many housewives in such cases reach for vinegar, baking soda or citric acid. But there is a much better trick to freshen up your washing machine. What do you have to do?

  • Cut the lemon in half and remove the seeds.
  • Clean the halves with toothpaste and then put them in the washing machine drum.
  • Run the washing machine on high temperature.

Toothpaste will help remove accumulated dirt, as it contains abrasive components (for example, silicon dioxide), so it perfectly cleans the inside of the washing machine. Citric acid contained in lemon has an antibacterial effect, but not only that. It copes well with limescale, which settles inside the washing machine, and also helps to remove unpleasant odors. Lemon and toothpaste are the perfect duo for refreshing the washing machine, which not only cleans the drum of the washing machine, but also restores its freshness.

How do you take care of your washing machine on a daily basis?

In order for your washing machine to serve you for a long time, you need to take care of it properly. First of all, regular cleaning is necessary (take care of the drum, seals, filters and detergent drawer). In addition, it is worth following a few simple tips that will help extend the life of your washing machine.

  • Use less detergent – not only will you save on detergent, but you will also prevent the accumulation of detergent inside the washing machine and on clothes, which leaves a white residue. Residues of detergent can settle on the parts of the washing machine, which shortens its life.
  • Open the door after washing – leave the drum door and detergent compartment open after each wash. A well-dried washing machine is a washing machine without mold and mildew.
  • Do not overload – do not overload the drum of the washing machine, otherwise the appliance may break down. Overloading the washing machine can also result in insufficiently washed clothes and even higher water and energy bills. To avoid this, do not exceed the permitted weight of the filling. You can check this value using the method “trick with the palm“. Simply insert your hand with fingers spread out into the drum – if it fits comfortably between the clothes and the wall of the drum, the amount of laundry inserted is optimal.
  • Bag check – before starting the washing machine, check all pockets and empty them of coins, handkerchiefs, receipts or keys. These unwanted objects can get stuck in the washing machine’s filters and can even contribute to malfunctions.
  • Give the washing machine a rest – several washes in a row can cause the parts of the washing machine to overheat and thus lead to malfunctions. If you wash several items on the same day, the washing machine should rest for at least an hour between cycles.
  • Set the wash to empty – at least once a month, set the wash cycle at high temperature without filler or detergent. This will help rid the drum of deposits, microorganisms and unpleasant odors.

Clean the washing machine drum with the help of two ingredients. You use one of them for oral hygiene